Hermeticism is a philosophical and esoteric system based on the teachings attributed to Hermes Trismegistus, a mythical figure that merges aspects of the Egyptian god Thoth and the Greek god Hermes.
His writings and teachings have influenced various spiritual, philosophical, and occult traditions throughout history.
Origins of Hermeticism
Who Was Hermes Trismegistus?
Hermes Trismegistus means “Hermes Thrice-Great” and represents the fusion of:
Thoth, the Egyptian god of wisdom, writing, and magic;
Hermes, the Greek god of communication, knowledge, and alchemy.
Although his existence is legendary, the Hermetic texts were written between the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD, probably by Neoplatonic and Gnostic philosophers seeking to synthesize Egyptian, Greek, and mystical thought.
Hermetic Texts
The teachings of Hermeticism are compiled in fundamental works such as:
1. Corpus Hermeticum
A collection of 17 treatises written in ancient Greek, discussing topics such as the nature of the cosmos, the divine mind, and the spiritual journey of humanity.
They teach that true knowledge leads to enlightenment and union with the divine.
2. Emerald Tablet
One of the most enigmatic and famous texts of Hermeticism.
Contains the iconic phrase: “As above, so below,” expressing the idea of correspondence between the macrocosm (universe) and the microcosm (human being).
It serves as the foundation for alchemy, interpreted as a guide for both spiritual and material transmutation.
3. The Kybalion
A modern book (1908) written by unknown authors, known as “The Three Initiates.”
It systematizes Hermeticism into the Seven Hermetic Principles.
The 7 Hermetic Principles (The Kybalion)
The Hermetic principles describe the universal laws that govern the cosmos and the human mind:
1 – Mentalism
“The All is Mind; the Universe is Mental.” → Everything in the universe is created and sustained by the cosmic mind.
2 – Correspondence
“As above, so below.” → There is a connection between all things, from the microcosm to the macrocosm.
3 – Vibration
“Nothing rests; everything moves and vibrates.” → Everything in the universe is energy in motion.
4 – Polarity
“Everything has its opposite; extremes meet.” → Light and darkness, good and evil, hot and cold are manifestations of the same essence.
5 – Rhythm
“Everything has its ebb and flow.” → Life follows natural cycles, such as tides, seasons, and moon phases.
6 – Cause and Effect
“Nothing happens by chance.” → Every action generates a reaction; there are no coincidences.
7 – Gender
“Everything has both masculine and feminine principles.” → The masculine represents action; the feminine represents receptivity. Both coexist.
Influence of Hermeticism in History
Hermeticism has influenced various traditions, including:
Gnosticism
A spiritual movement that believed knowledge (gnosis) liberated the soul from material illusion.
Alchemy
Sought to transform base metals into gold and achieve the “Philosopher’s Stone,” a metaphor for spiritual enlightenment.
Kabbalah and Jewish Mysticism
The concept of correspondence between spiritual and material worlds was integrated into Kabbalistic thought.
Occultism and Secret Societies
Movements such as Rosicrucianism, Freemasonry, and Theosophy incorporated Hermetic teachings.
Renaissance and Modern Philosophy
Thinkers like Marsilio Ficino and Giordano Bruno revived Hermeticism, influencing science, philosophy, and art.
Hermeticism Today
Hermeticism continues to be studied and applied in fields such as:
Spirituality (self-knowledge, meditation)
Psychology (Jung linked archetypes to Hermeticism)
Law of Attraction and Metaphysics (mentalism and vibration influence modern concepts of manifestation)
What Does Hermeticism Teach Us?
Hermeticism suggests that the universe is governed by immutable laws and that by understanding them, we can evolve spiritually. Its teachings emphasize the importance of knowledge, reflection, and the connection between human beings and the cosmos.
This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
